Cosmetic Dermatology
Neuromodulators
Neuromodulators such as Botox® (onabotulinumtoxinA) use botulinum toxin to relax the facial muscles responsible for dynamic wrinkles, helping create a smoother, more refreshed appearance while preserving your natural expression and softening the signs of aging.
At Avarbock Chamorro Dermatology, Botox® treatments are performed by both Dr. Avarbock and Dr. Chamorro. Treatments are fast, require little to no downtime, and are fully customizable. Whether you are looking to soften existing lines or prevent future wrinkles, we create personalized treatment plans designed to deliver natural-looking results.
Commonly treated areas
Botox® is administered with precision to soften the areas where repeated expression leaves its mark, while maintaining natural facial movement.
Forehead lines
The horizontal lines that form across the forehead with expression.
Frown lines
The vertical glabellar lines between the brows, often called the "elevens."
Crow's feet
The fine lines that fan out from the outer corners of the eyes.
Bunny lines
The fine wrinkles that appear across the bridge and sides of the nose when you scrunch or smile.
Lip lines
The vertical lines around the cutaneous lip, softened with small, carefully placed doses.
DAO
The depressor anguli oris, treated to lift the downturned corners of the mouth.
Jawline
Contouring along the jawline for a softer, more defined shape.
Neck
The vertical platysmal bands of the neck, treated to smooth their appearance.
Chin
The mentalis muscle, treated to smooth the dimpled or "cobblestone" texture of the chin.
What to expect
From consultation to results, here is how a neuromodulator visit works.
Consultation
Your treatment begins with a consultation to discuss your goals and assess your facial anatomy and muscle movement.
Mapping
Your physician maps the injection points precisely, so the result is even and preserves natural expression.
Treatment
The procedure takes about 10 to 15 minutes and involves a series of small injections. Most patients describe minimal discomfort.
Back to your day
There is no downtime and you can return to normal activities right away. Stay upright and avoid rubbing the injection sites or lying down for 4 hours, so the product does not shift. Skip vigorous exercise, alcohol, and extreme heat such as hot tubs, saunas, and steam rooms for 24 hours.
Results
Muscles begin to relax and lines start to soften at 3 to 5 days, with full effect visible at 2 weeks. Results typically last three months.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions about Neuromodulators
What exactly is Botox®?
Botox® (onabotulinumtoxinA) is an FDA-approved injectable made from botulinum toxin type A. It temporarily relaxes the specific facial muscles responsible for dynamic wrinkles — the lines formed by repeated expressions such as frowning, squinting, and raising the brows.
Will I still look like myself?
Yes. The goal is a softened, rested appearance, not a frozen one. Dosing and placement are tailored to your anatomy so that natural movement and expression are preserved.
Does it hurt?
Most patients describe only a brief pinch with each injection. Topical anesthesia is not typically required.
When will I see results, and how long do they last?
Muscles begin to relax and lines start to soften at 3 to 5 days, with full effect visible at 2 weeks. Results typically last three months. Many patients find that results last longer with consistent treatment over time.
Is there any downtime?
No. You can return to your normal activities immediately. We ask that you stay upright and avoid facial massage, rubbing the injection sites, or lying down for 4 hours, so the product does not shift. Skip vigorous exercise, alcohol, and extreme heat such as hot tubs, saunas, and steam rooms for 24 hours.
Can Botox® prevent wrinkles?
Treating dynamic lines before they become etched into the skin can help slow their progression. Many patients begin treatment preventively in their late twenties or thirties.
Who should not receive treatment?
We review your full medical history and current medications at your consultation. Treatment is not appropriate in the following situations.
Absolute contraindications
- Skin infection: active bacterial or viral infection, such as a cold sore, or an open wound at the planned injection site.
- Allergy: a past severe reaction to botulinum toxin or to any formula ingredient, including human albumin.
Health conditions to avoid
- Neuromuscular disorders: conditions that cause muscle weakness, such as myasthenia gravis, Lambert-Eaton syndrome, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
- Pregnancy and nursing: not recommended while pregnant or breastfeeding, as safety has not been established.
Medication interactions
- Aminoglycoside antibiotics (topical, oral, or injectable gentamicin, neomycin, or streptomycin): these can interact with botulinum toxin and increase muscle weakness.
- Muscle relaxants: taken together, these can significantly worsen muscle weakness.
If your question isn't answered here, call the office at (305) 306-9470 and we will walk you through it.